Cloudlifter CL-Zi Single Channel DI/Mic Activator with Variable Impedance

The CL-Zi features an interactive sweepable High-Pass Filter. When engaged, the roll-off frequency adjusts dynamically along with the Vari-Z control (~20 Hz to over 4 kHz), giving you organic control over proximity effect, guitar pickup loading, and low-frequency rumble. A 3-position gain selector (Min / More / Max) lets you tailor headroom and output levels for both high-output instrument signals and quiet dynamic/ribbon microphones.

Key Features

• Active DI & Mic Activator in One: Features a Neutrik XLR-1/4" Combo jack to boost low-output passive mics or direct-inject guitars, basses, and keys.

• Custom CineMag Transformer: Built with a premium CineMag transformer (greater than $1\text{ M}\Omega$ primary impedance) for ultra-wide frequency response and harmonic depth.

• Vari-Z Continuous Impedance Loading (150Ω to 15kΩ): Continuously variable impedance dial alters microphone transformer reaction or instrument pickup loading for dynamic tonal shaping.

• 3-Step Gain Control Switch: Toggle between Min (+6dB mic / +3dB inst), More (+12dB mic / +6dB inst), and Max (+25dB mic / +12dB inst) settings for ideal gain staging.

• Dynamic High-Pass Filter: Interactive low-cut filter works in sync with the Vari-Z dial to clear up mud, boom, or proximity effect.

• Ground Lift Switch: Recessed ground-lift switch mitigates ground loops and hum when interfacing with amplifiers and pedalboards.

• Phantom Powered & DC Safe: Operates on standard +48V phantom power without passing DC voltage to input transducers.

Technical Specifications

• Form Factor: Portable Desktop / Floor Box Hardware Unit

• Channel Count: 1 Channel

• Gain Settings (Microphone): $+6\text{ dB}$ (Min) / $+12\text{ dB}$ (More) / $+25\text{ dB}$ (Max)

• Gain Settings (Instrument DI): $+3\text{ dB}$ (Min) / $+6\text{ dB}$ (More) / $+12\text{ dB}$ (Max)

• Circuit Topology: Patented Class-A Discrete JFET with Custom CineMag Transformer Stage

• Input Impedance: $>1\text{ M}\Omega$ (Instrument Primary) / $150\Omega \text{ to }15\text{ k}\Omega$ (Vari-Z Secondary Load Range)

• High-Pass Filter: Switchable $-6\text{ dB/octave}$ Low-Cut (~20 Hz – 4 kHz, interactive with Vari-Z dial)

• Ground Isolation: Dedicated Slide-Switch Ground Lift

• Power Requirements: $+48\text{V}$ Phantom Power (Blocks phantom power from passing to connected inputs)

• Audio Inputs: 1x Neutrik XLR-1/4" Combo Jack

• Audio Outputs: 1x XLR Male (Gold Pin)

• Compatible Sources: Electric Guitars, Basses, Keyboards, Passive Dynamics, Passive Ribbons, Tube Mics (via PSU)

• Enclosure Construction: Heavy-Duty Steel Chassis (Handcrafted in Tucson, AZ, USA)